Dogs and cats communicate with us in two main ways—through body language and vocalizations. As much as we wish they could simply tell us what they’re thinking or feeling, dogs and cats have their own languages. Find out more about what your pets are saying when they meow or bark.
What does it mean when a cat meows?
Cats make a variety of sounds, from hisses to purrs. But one sound, the meow, is mostly used in communication with people. So, what does a cat meow mean?
Your cat’s meow could mean several things:
- They’re hungry: A hungry cat will often let out a long meow while approaching their food bowl or if you’re pulling out the treats.
- They’re happy to see you: It’s not uncommon for cats to approach you and meow when you first get home. They’re greeting you.
- They want your attention: A cat who wants your attention may meow at you. They may also do this when bored or stressed to get you to pay attention to them.
- They’re trapped or stuck somewhere: Repeatedly meowing or yowling behind a closed door means “let me out.”
Kittens and mother cats also meow at each other, which is sometimes called a mew. Once they get older, meowing is mostly used to talk with the cat’s humans.
Your cat can make a lot of other noises, too, and each of those noises has their own meaning. Learn more about caterwauling in cats.
What does it mean when a dog barks?
Dog barks serve a variety of purposes in canine communication, and what a dog bark means depends on the specific scenario. Is your dog barking at you? Are they barking at a dog walking past the fence? Are they seemingly barking at nothing? You’ll have to consider your dog’s body language and the situation that’s causing the barking to decode what your dog is saying to you.
Your dog’s bark has a few potential meanings, such as:
- They want attention: Your dog may bark to get your attention, such as when they want to come inside, want food or want you to pet them.
- They’re feeling playful or happy: Barking while wagging their tail and displaying other friendly behavior means your dog is happy or wants to play. Some dogs will also bark while playing with you or other animals.
- They’re guarding their territory or resources: A dog who barks at people or dogs walking by or who barks when people approach them while they’re eating may be resource guarding.
- They’re frightened: A short, sudden bark may mean your dog has been startled. Some dogs also bark repeatedly when they’re feeling anxious, such as a dog with separation anxiety who has been left alone.
When should I be concerned about meowing or barking?
Meowing and barking are normal parts of feline and canine communication, but your pet can also use these sounds to communicate when something is wrong.
Your cat’s meow could indicate that something is amiss if:
- Your cat is roaming around and meowing frequently at night
- Your cat is standing in the litter box, vocalizing
- Your cat is meowing a lot more than usual, especially in conjunction with increased activity, aggression, weight loss or poor grooming habits
- The sound of your cat’s meow has changed, such as becoming raspy
A cat who hasn’t been spayed or neutered may also meow and yowl more when seeking mates.
Your dog’s barking could be a sign that you should contact your veterinarian if:
- Your dog has begun to seemingly bark at nothing
- Your dog’s barking is excessive and disruptive to your home life or neighbors
- Your dog’s barking is associated with aggressive body language like growling, lunging or biting, especially if it’s directed at a normal stimulus such as a child entering the room
- The sound of your dog’s bark has changed, such as becoming raspy
It’s best to contact your VCA care team if you have any concerns about your pet’s vocalizations. Not only can they help you decode your pet’s language, but they can also rule out medical issues.
Learn more about how dogs communicate using body language. >>
